What does the face pull exercise work?

Benefits of face pulls The rear deltoids are the primary muscles targeted in the face pull exercise. Additionally, the rhomboids, which allow you to pinch the shoulder blades together, and the middle trapezius (upper back) also play a role in executing this move.

Are face pulls a bad exercise?

Enter the face pull. The move is one of those underrated exercises you’re probably not doing often—or at all. But you should definitely be making it a part of your regular upper-body routine because of it’s simplicity and effectiveness, and it also makes a great warmup to bulletproof your shoulders.

Are face pulls for back or shoulders?

The face pull is an isolation exercise that activates muscles in your lower back and upper back—specifically the rear deltoids on the back of your shoulders.

Do face pulls hurt shoulders?

Face pulls are a great exercise for the rear deltoids, trapezius, and upper back muscles. The rear delts, by comparison, are often neglected. This type of muscular imbalance can contribute to shoulder pain and injuries, not to mention a “hunched forward” appearance and poor posture.

Do face pulls work rhomboids?

Face Pulls primarily work the rear deltoids (shoulders), rhomboids and the external rotators (infraspinatus and teres minor). Keeping these muscles strong and conditioned is extremely important. Especially for those that do a lot of pressing-type exercises like push-ups, bench press and overhead press.

How many reps of face pulls should I do?

Hold the position for 1-2 seconds once your arms are fully extended and squeeze your upper back muscles, return to your starting position whilst having tension in the cables. We suggest to do 10 – 12 repetitions per set.

What is a replacement for face pulls?

Single Arm Bent Over Rows This exercise is a great way to work your shoulder muscles and back muscles. This face pull alternative is a fantastic way to target the rear deltoid and strengthen that shoulder muscle in general.

How to do face pulls step by step?

FACE PULLS Exercise notes: Start position is standing, holding a cable attachment in each hand with palms facing each other and thumbs pointed toward your face. Begin pulling the rope with elbows leading the hands as you pull backward and squeezing the shoulder blades as you get the end of the movement. Return to the starting position and repeat.

Why is the face pull a bad exercise?

The increasing moment arm and the additional force required to straighten the rope, both occur at precisely the point the target muscles are getting weaker. This is because the posterior deltoid, infraspinatus and teres minor are all fully shortened in this part of the exercise.

What’s the safer alternative to the face pull?

A safer, more effective alternative. Presuming your goal is to get stronger and not injured, there are more effective alternatives. Try this one. Supine reverse cable crossover. Firstly, by lying down you allow gravity to anchor your trunk.

Who is the best trainer for face pulls?

This is where you can find all the latest FREE workouts, nutrition and training advice to get you on your way to a healthy, leaner, more muscular, athletic body by training like an athlete. Learn from the physical therapist and strength coach Jeff Cavaliere, exactly what he does with his professional athlete and celebrity clients.